From 2015 to 2023, KiNNO has acted as the Hub for EIT InnoEnergy for Greece and Cyprus.
Over the past eight years, we have assisted more than 50 startups and SMEs in developing their groundbreaking business ideas. Our collaboration with EIT InnoEnergy has been instrumental for staying at the forefront of fostering innovation in the sustainable energy and cleantech sectors.
Our Role as the Greek Hub for EIT InnoEnergy
As the designated hub for Greece and Cyprus, KiNNO has undertaken several key responsibilities to drive innovation and support the growth of the sustainable energy and cleantech ecosystem:
- Promoting Assets from InnoEnergy Portfolio: We have actively promoted innovative assets from the InnoEnergy portfolio to the Greek market, ensuring that cutting-edge technologies reach the right stakeholders.
- Connecting Greek Industry Stakeholders: By linking Greek industries with InnoEnergy’s value chains, we have facilitated valuable collaborations and partnerships.
- Identifying Promising Ideas: Our team has been dedicated to scouting and identifying promising startups and entrepreneurs in the energy and cleantech sectors.
- Engaging with Investors and Industry: We have fostered strong relationships with investors and industry leaders to support the growth and scaling of innovative businesses.
- Promoting InnoEnergy MSc Programs: We have also promoted InnoEnergy’s Master’s programs, encouraging applications and participation from Greek students.
Greek Hub in Numbers
Our efforts have yielded significant results:
- Startups Supported: 50+
- Applications for MSc Programs Supported: 50+
- Promotion Events Supported and Participated: 45+
- Competitions Organized: 5+ (including Primer, PowerUp!, and Jumpstarter)
- Assets Promoted: 20 in areas such as Smart Grids, Renewable Energy Sources (RES), Energy Storage, and Sustainable Buildings & Cities
Noteworthy Competitions Organized by KiNNO throughout the years:
- PowerUp! 🌟: This competition is the largest startup challenge in Central and Eastern Europe, focusing on energy, mobility, and smart technologies. It provides startups with the opportunity to pitch their solutions to investors, participate in business bootcamps, and compete for significant financial prizes.
- Primer 🚀: A pre-accelerator program designed to help early-stage startups in the CEE region. It offers intensive training, mentoring, and networking opportunities to prepare startups for market entry and growth.
- EIT Jumpstarter 💡: One of Europe’s best programs for early-stage innovators, EIT Jumpstarter supports idea-holders in turning their concepts into viable businesses. It provides access to a vast innovation network, expert mentoring, and opportunities to compete for substantial prizes.
Focus on Business Opportunities for Greece
KiNNO played a vital role in organizing several prominent competitions that continue to shape the region’s energy and cleantech landscape:
- Green Islands: Advancing sustainable energy solutions for island communities.
- De-lignification of Coal Regions: Supporting the transition from lignite-based energy to greener alternatives.
- Ports/Shipping Decarbonization: Developing technologies to reduce emissions in the maritime sector.
- Twin Transition in Hard-to-Abate Industries: Integrating green and digital technologies in challenging industrial sectors.
These opportunities continue to be a focus for KiNNO, as we remain dedicated to driving sustainable growth and innovation in the energy and cleantech sectors.
Join Us in Creating a Greener Future
At KiNNO, we remain committed to empowering startups and SMEs to create innovative solutions that drive a greener, more sustainable future. Focusing on advancing sustainable energy and cleantech innovation, we continue to lead the way toward a more sustainable tomorrow.
Are You Ready to Take the Next Step?
Let’s work together to accelerate your technology and contribute to a sustainable energy future! Whether you’re an innovative startup, an investor, or a forward-thinking industry leader, KiNNO is here to help you bring your vision to life.
We invite you to reach out to us for collaboration opportunities or inquiries at: mitropoulos@kinno.eu.
Join us in shaping a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow!